Essam Khalaf

This humble Iraqi wing-back dominates the flanks with blistering speed and aerial prowess, though his tendency to get over-reliant on physical force often leaves his defensive positioning exposed. Before every match, he meticulously aligns his shin guards with his teammate’s water bottles to invite good fortune, a bizarre ritual that has his squad shaking their heads in amusement. Despite the oddity, his relentless work rate and lethal crosses make him an indispensable force on the pitch.